NASA Space to Soil Challenge: Call for Submissions and Self-Nominations for Judges
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), through its Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO), has announced the NASA Space to Soil Challenge. This Sources Sought notice invites submissions for innovative small satellite (SmallSat) mission concepts focused on adaptive sensing and onboard processing to advance regenerative agriculture and forestry. NASA is also seeking self-nominations for judges. Initial submissions are due by March 28, 2026.
Scope of Work
Participants are challenged to design SmallSat mission concepts that leverage adaptive sensing and onboard processing to enhance regenerative agriculture, forestry, or other land resilience objectives. The challenge aims to advance NASA's science and exploration goals in these areas.
Challenge Structure & Prizes
The challenge involves a three-phase process:
- Phase One: Submission of a 5-page white paper and video.
- Phase Two: A live pitch event for finalists (anticipated June 2026).
- Phase Three: An incubator program for winners.
Up to three winners will receive $100,000 each, and up to two runners-up will receive $25,000 each.
Judge Recruitment
NASA is recruiting U.S.-based venture and commercial experts to serve as judges. Ideal candidates possess expertise in small satellites, onboard processing, entrepreneurship, or startup funding. A training call for judges is anticipated in May 2026.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Challenge
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due (Submissions/Nominations): March 28, 2026, 22:00 UTC
- Published: March 5, 2026
Additional Information
For more details and to register, visit https://nasa-space-to-soil.org. Questions regarding the challenge website or submission process should be emailed to info@NASA-Space-to-soil.org. General questions or comments about this SAM.gov notice should be directed to the primary point of contact via email with the subject line "NASA Space to Soil Challenge Question/Clarification."
Contact Information
- Primary POC: Laura Rogers Science and Mission Directorate
- Email: laura.j.rogers@nasa.gov